Arizona Certified Nursing Assistant (CNA) Practice Test

What is the most important step to take before soaking a resident's feet for foot care?

1. Gather all necessary supplies

2. Ensure the temperature of the water is appropriate

3. Check the resident's foot condition

4. Inform the resident about the procedure

The correct answer is: Ensure the temperature of the water is appropriate

Ensuring the temperature of the water is appropriate is crucial before soaking a resident's feet for foot care because it directly relates to the safety and comfort of the resident. Warm water can help relax the muscles and improve circulation, while water that is too hot can cause burns, especially if the resident has reduced sensitivity in their feet. Proper temperature control is essential to prevent injury and to provide an effective, safe care routine. While gathering all necessary supplies is important to have everything on hand ready for the procedure, and checking the resident's foot condition ensures that you are aware of any specific needs or issues that might require special attention, these steps are typically performed after confirming that the water temperature is safe for the resident. Informing the resident about the procedure is also significant for their understanding and comfort, but it must be done in conjunction with ensuring their safety through proper water temperature management. Thus, ensuring the temperature is appropriate is the most critical initial step in the foot care process.